Expanded Function Dental Assisting (EFDA) Program

Accepting applications for 2027! Course dates to be announced in September 2026

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University of Bridgeport’s Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) program is designed for dental professionals who aspire to expand their skills and advance their careers. This continuing education program offers comprehensive training and hands-on experience in advanced dental procedures, including:

• Applying sealants
• Placing composite and amalgam restorations
• Fabricating temporary restorations
• Coronal polishing
• Applying topical anesthesia and topical fluoride treatments
• And more!

Learn from experienced educators (dentists and dental hygienists) who bring real-world expertise into both lecture and lab. Gain practical experience with the latest dental technology and techniques in our state-of-the-art facilities.

Delta Dental SMILE Workforce

Advance your dental career

Upon completion of state specific requirements including our hands-on program, dental assistants can increase their value as dental service providers under the supervision and direction of their dentist. This hybrid EFDA program runs for approximately 22 weeks. You will complete your coursework online and attend on-campus clinical lab sessions monthly. For your convenience, on-campus sessions are offered on a combination of Fridays and Saturdays, depending on the month.

Admission requirements

This selective admissions program will run continuously. All factors are considered for admissions, including personal statement, employer recommendation, and CDA status.

Current requirements for EFDA status I Connecticut include:

1. Current CDA status
2. Successfully complete an expanded function dental assistant program at a higher education institution accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) that includes educational courses related to didactic and laboratory preclinical objectives and at least four hours of education in ethics and professional standards for dental professionals and a comprehensive clinical exam administered by the higher education program at the conclusion of the program.
3. Successful completion of the DANB Restorative Functions (impressions, temporaries, restorative functions) and Preventive Functions (sealants, coronal polish, fluoride) exams.
4. Current individual liability insurance as required by the State of Connecticut.
5. Consult the State of Connecticut Chapter 379 for current statute, changes and continuing education requirements.

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